Concepts of ecological rating of permissible anthropogenic impact on the soil cover in Ukraine

The conceptual basis, methodology, and structure of ecological rating of permissible anthropogenic loads on soils in Ukraine are discussed. The main goals of the ecological rating are to ensure the preservation of optimum soil productivity and ecological functions, the rehabilitation of soil fertility, and the protection of soil and land resources. Conditions and criteria of ecologically safe land management are discussed. The main principles of the system of ecological rating—its reliability, hierarchy, differentiation and integration, reality, optimality and minimization, and adaptation—are considered. The methodology of hygienic and ecotoxicologic rating is analyzed. It is suggested that these approaches may be combined for the adequate assessment of soil contamination by heavy metals. The suggested scheme of ecological norms takes into account soil and climatic conditions, the character of land use, and other factors.